Carol's Canine Training and Behavior Counseling, LLC

05/09/2026

A Simple Way to Reduce Anxiety

Looking for a simple, science-backed way to help your dog feel calmer?
👉 Let them use their nose.

Scent work (finding treats, toys, or specific scents) has been shown to:
✔️ Reduce anxiety
✔️ Increase optimism
✔️ Provide a powerful mental outlet

I see it all the time—with my own dogs, my clients dogs, and my foster dogs. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.

Want to learn how to get started? Join my 3-week class:
https://carolscaninetraining.com/events/the-ultimate-dog-intro-to-scents-and-patterns-openings/

Study:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159125003351 #:~:text=In%20the%20sport%20of%20scent,Parr%2DCortes%2C%202023).

Thursday, August 6, 2026 - Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm - The Ultimate Dog: Intro to Scents & Patterns Build confidence, connection, and calm—through the power of scent and predictable games with this 3 week class. Dogs experience the world through their nose. In this fun we’ll ...

05/09/2026

📆As I often tell my clients, dogs thrive with routine and predictability!

🎾🍲Also play and a good appetite are signs of good appetite health.

💤Also its essential for dogs to have a place where they can truly rest undisturbed.

https://www.newsweek.com/trainer-reveals-5-signs-dog-emotionally-safe-home-11857133

05/08/2026

💋💋💋Dogs may not always interpret kissing in the same way as humans, and it is essential to acknowledge and respect their unique language and the meaning of their behaviors.

Kissing is a behavior that is not exclusive to humans, as other mammals also exhibit this trait.

However, when dogs "kiss" us, the underlying meaning can be complex, potentially indicating excitement, appeasement, attention-seeking, hunger, or a behavior reinforced by humans.

I don’t kiss my dogs and they don’t exhibit that behavior with me. Then again - I see what they lick so that’s a person preference. 😲😳😆

Read more:
https://www.thebrighterside.news/post/humans-are-not-the-only-animals-that-kiss/

05/08/2026

05/07/2026

Genetics Matter

A recent study out of the University of Cambridge found that traits like anxiety, fearfulness, and social behavior in Golden Retrievers are influenced by genetics.

Translation? Who your dog comes from matters.

This is why I always stress:
• Meet the parents
• Understand the breed
• Prioritize early socialization
• Start training early

We’re not starting with a blank slate—we’re working with a living, breathing individual shaped by both genetics and life experiences.

Want to learn more? Check out my blog:
https://carolscaninetraining.com/training/getting-a-puppy-meet-the-parents/

Study:
https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/golden-retriever-and-human-behaviours-are-driven-by-same-genes

Researchers have discovered that genes underlying specific behavioural traits in golden retrievers - from trainability to fear of strangers - also shape human

05/06/2026

Say no to board and train!

Dog Trainer Convicted, But Case Isn't Over

Milwaukee County, Wisconsin - Another board and train nightmare to report and this one comes with body cam video.

Kassidy Ziegel, who operated a dog training and boarding business called K-9 Kassidy, has reportedly been convicted on 5 counts of intentional animal mistreatment.

The case stems from allegations that she abused dogs she was supposed to care for, with police body camera footage and a search warrant reportedly revealing evidence of her kicking and screaming at dogs.

Customers reported their dogs returned home with weight loss, infections, and injuries. One dog reportedly died and another went missing.

Ziegel was sentenced to probation with a complete ban on owning or handling animals, mandatory mental health treatment, and a 5-year prohibition on training or boarding animals.

She avoided immediate jail time.

Online court documents reveal her attorney is challenging the sentence with deadlines into this year.

Next court date to appeal: May 4, 2026

SOURCE: Milwaukee County Court Records

Fair use. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

05/05/2026

The “Epidemic” of Dog Anxiety

A study of over 43,000 dogs suggests we may be facing an epidemic of anxiety and behavior challenges.

But here’s the real question…
Is it just the dogs?
Or is it:
• The fast-paced, high-stress human world they’re living in
• Unrealistic expectations we place on them
• A lack of understanding of their needs, breed traits, and communication

Dogs aren’t humans in fur coats. They have their own rules, instincts, and emotional needs.

When we:
✔️ Meet their needs
✔️ Understand their breed and genetics
✔️ Learn their body language
✔️ Teach them using force-free methods
Life is better for both of us!

We shouldn’t be looking to “fix behavior”— instead we should build better relationships.

Need help navigating behavior challenges? Reach out.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S155878782400090X

Numerous studies have reported the prevalence of various behavior problems in dogs and cats around the world. The actual number of animals included in…

05/04/2026

🐾📖
A must read for anyone who has a dog!

https://www.bunko.pet/en/veterinarians-reveal-10-things-your-dog-wishes-you-understood-t202604260006.html

05/04/2026

While freeing the beagles is a great outcome, it is crucial to carefully consider whether you can provide the specialized care and support needed by a scent hound that has experienced early trauma before adopting.

These dogs need patience and time to heal from their past chronic stress and trauma.

05/04/2026

🐾📺Like the experts, I agree while dogs may look at TV, especially movement, it’s no replacement for social connection, physical exercise and mental stimulation.

https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2026/05/03/can-tv-really-keep-your-dog-entertained-while-youre-away

05/04/2026

Diet and nutrition can have a significant impact on behavior.

What's the best dry dog food, and what should you look for when shopping for healthy dog foods? Here's the criteria to look for, read on.